Nuclear Power and Energy Policy

President-elect Donald Trump nominated Chris Wright as Energy Secretary, focusing on nuclear power production and technology. Wright aims to revive plutonium pit production and support Small Modular Reactor technology for energy needs.

Nuclear Power and Radioactive Waste Storage in Northwest Colorado

The article discusses the potential for nuclear power to make a comeback in the U.S., with conversations happening in northwest Colorado about hosting a temporary storage site for radioactive waste. Residents and experts have mixed reactions about the idea, with concerns about safety and potential risks involved.

Russian Attacks on Ukraine's Electricity Infrastructure

Moscow's renewed attacks on Ukraine's electricity infrastructure have highlighted the Ukrainian Energy Ministry's failure to protect critical energy facilities near nuclear power sites, leaving the country vulnerable. Despite warnings, action to build protection for nuclear switchyards was delayed, potentially leading to devastating consequences in the event of an attack.

Criticism of New York's Clean Energy Plans

Former New York Governor George Pataki criticizes New York's clean energy plans as unrealistic and unattainable, citing a significant gap between energy use and generation. He advocates for small nuclear reactors as a solution to the state's energy needs.

Re-opening of Uranium Mine near the Grand Canyon

The re-opening of a uranium mine near the Grand Canyon has raised safety concerns among the Navajo Nation and Arizona's attorney general. Despite claims of safety by the mine's owner, there are worries about environmental impact and groundwater pollution. The mine plays a significant role in the transition to nuclear power amidst geopolitical tensions.

Australia's Debate on Nuclear Power

Australia is debating a pivot to nuclear power in its energy mix, with the Liberal National Coalition parties making it a central part of their policy platform to reach net zero emissions by 2050. This move is in line with a global trend towards nuclear energy, but faces challenges such as historic opposition, laws banning nuclear power, local resistance, and high costs.

Transition from Coal to Nuclear Power in Kemmerer, Wyoming

The coal power plant in Kemmerer, Wyoming is set to be decommissioned next year, leading to layoffs and concerns about transitioning to lower carbon energy sources. Terra Power, owned by Bill Gates, plans to build a nuclear power plant in Kemmerer to supplement lost jobs. There is optimism and skepticism about the future of the town's energy industry amidst conflicting signals and political uncertainty.

Restarting Nuclear Power Plant in Michigan

The federal government will provide a $1.5 billion loan to restart a nuclear power plant in southwestern Michigan, which was acquired by Holtec International in 2022. The emphasis is now on restarting the plant by late 2025 with support from the state of Michigan and the Biden administration.

Russia's Attack on Ukrainian Power Facilities

Russia attacked electrical power facilities in Ukraine, causing widespread outages and at least three deaths. The attacks targeted the country's energy sector and a hydroelectric plant near Europe's largest nuclear power installation.

Russian-Chinese Collaboration on Moon Nuclear Power Plant

Roscosmos and China are considering building a nuclear power plant on the moon by 2033, using robots and a space tugboat for transportation. This project is part of a collaboration agreement between the two countries for lunar projects.